Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], May 14: In a moving show of support, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma shared a heartfelt tribute following her husband Virat Kohli’s announcement of retirement from Test cricket. Kohli’s decision, which marks the end of a remarkable 14-year journey in the longest format, has drawn reactions from fans, fellow cricketers, and public figures across the globe.
Anushka reposted a note originally penned by National Award-winning lyricist Varun Grover, who eloquently captured the unique poetry of Test cricket and Kohli’s irreplaceable role in it. Grover’s tribute described Test cricket as “a novel”—full of evolving characters, shifting conditions, and layered narratives. Highlighting Kohli’s impact, the post read:
“Virat Kohli is the biggest character of this novel in the last decade. They not only lived all the juices of this novel but also made it more enriched… a sensitive hero who looks beautiful in both defeat and win.”
The post resonated deeply with fans and cricket enthusiasts, underlining Kohli’s legacy not just as a cricketer, but as a storyteller through the game.
Kohli, 36, took to Instagram on Monday to announce his decision to step away from Test cricket. In an emotional message, he wrote:
“It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket… I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for… I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile. #269, signing off.”
During his career, Kohli amassed over 9,000 Test runs, delivering stellar performances against top teams like Australia, England, and South Africa. He also redefined fitness and aggression in Indian cricket and inspired a generation with his leadership.
The couple was seen returning to Mumbai on Tuesday after visiting Premanand Maharaj’s ashram in Vrindavan for blessings. At the airport, emotions ran high as a paparazzo shouted, “Kohli sir, aapne galat kiya. Aapne retirement kyu liya, abhi hum cricket nahi dekhenge” (Kohli sir, you made a mistake. Why did you retire? We won’t watch cricket now).
While the cricketing world absorbs the news of Kohli’s Test exit, fans are still hopeful and excited about his future in ODIs and IPL, where his dominance remains unquestioned.